Edmonton police to educate citizens via YouTube

Facebook, Twitter are also part of their social media strategy aimed at greater community engagement

THUNDER BAY – Over the past several weeks, NetNewsledger.com has been featuring some of the means that Police Services in Canada are adopting social media strategies to engage with the public, and fight crime. “As we move forward with the Violence Reduction Strategy, we will be communicating with the community much more often and in a variety of new ways,” said Deputy Chief Neil Dubord. “The Weekly Crime Updates will help police connect more directly with citizens, and help citizens better access police information and resources. We will also be able to provide updates on the strategy in an accountable, transparent and inclusive manner.”

In Edmonton, drugs, violence and murder are a serious problem. As a part of the Edmonton Police Service’s strategy to fight crime, the service are launching a series of weekly videos to share with Edmontonians the efforts underway to make a difference in the city. This is in addition to the EPS presence on Facebook, Youtube and Twitter.

One of the goals is greater community engagement. The Violence Reduction Strategy was introduced by EPS Chief Rod Knecht on August 10, to reduce the severity, frequency, and fear or perception of violence in the city. The weekly crime and disorder update is one of nine new police initiatives underway, and will provide citizens and media with regular information about crime trends and patterns that they can use to keep communities informed and safe.